Racing:Johnny Murtagh was crowned champion flat jockey for the fifth time this afternoon. Having started the day three clear of Pat Smullen, an early strike on his boss John Oxx's Takar in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (C & G) Maiden helped cement Murtagh's grip on the trophy.
The 11-4 favourite could be spotted travelling strongly before the turn for home and devoured the ground in the straight to win as he liked by eight lengths from Place Vendome.
With Smullen unable to get his head in front in the following two races, Murtagh was confirmed as champion.
Speaking after Takar’s success, Oxx said: “It’s great for Johnny. He has been determined all year. It’s been a big effort and he has shown enthusiasm and dedication, and is still one of the best in Europe.”
As well as domestic success, Murtagh won this year's Epsom Oaks on the William Haggas-trained Dancing Rain, as well as the Qipco British Champions Sprint Stakes on James Fanshawe's Deacon Blues. Smullen, himself a six-time champion, won the title last season.